I finished work a bit early and drove across the Connecticut River, searching for a landing where I could launch my kayak. After reaching the west side of the Ledyard Bridge, I looked for US-5 and took it to the north (through Norwich). I'd heard about a place called "Ompompanoosuc" (supposed to be good kayaking) and tried to locate a landing by following the river. Since I never saw anywhere to park, I explored a few neighborhoods (gravel roads) - I eventually met some local people who were walking and they described how I could locate the Vermont State Boat Launch that was nearby. Once I found it (around 1630), I was in business! At first, I paddled east until I crossed under a railroad bridge and into the Connecticut itself. This was the first time I'd paddled the River - it was much smoother and calmer than the Potomoc. Spent some time paddling upriver and then back to the mouth of the Ompompanoosuc River and headed inland. The water to the west of the Landing was even more calm and I didn't have any human company for miles. Unless you count the I-91 overpass - I crossed under them about half a mile upstream. After that, though, I passed through quiet, shaded areas. There were pretty houses (a few people were out in their yards or on their decks). Overall, a very pleasant experience! I probably paddled about 1.5 miles upstream and back in around 1.5 hours (done just after 1800). Felt good after such a nice evening on the water - loving my new home!
